The Washington State African American Achievement Awards recently announced its 2026 honorees, recognizing trailblazers, advocates, and leaders whose impact extends far beyond their professions. Now in its second decade, the awards have become a cornerstone celebration of Black excellence, honoring those who embody resilience, service, and leadership while uplifting communities across the state.
This year’s theme, “Shining Executive Super Stars,” highlights individuals who not only excel in their fields but also mentor, advocate, and create opportunities for others. Organizers say the 2026 ceremony will be one of the most inspiring yet, with powerful tributes, community recognition, and a gathering of distinguished leaders whose lives exemplify achievement and service.
For more than ten years, the African American Achievement Awards have celebrated those whose work shapes history and creates pathways for the next generation. The tradition continues in 2026 with honorees who represent excellence across education, public service, healthcare, the arts, business, and civic leadership.
The 2026 honorees include:
Lifetime Achievement Award: Eddie Rye Jr.
Rye will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for his decades of leadership as a civil rights icon, advocate, and mentor. For more than half a century, Rye has championed equity and accountability, from pushing for fair representation of Black contractors in public works to preserving cultural landmarks in Seattle’s Central District. He also led the campaign to rename Empire Way as Martin Luther King Jr. Way, ensuring the civil rights leader’s legacy lives on in Seattle.
Through his long-running radio program, Urban Forum Northwest, Rye has amplified grassroots voices and mobilized listeners on issues of justice. His recognition honors not only his achievements but also the generations of leaders he continues to inspire.
Unsung Shero Award: Barbara Laners
Laners will be honored with the Unsung Shero Award for her steadfast commitment to justice and equity. A distinguished attorney, Laners has spent more than three decades representing individuals and families navigating systemic inequities in housing, civil rights, and employment. Beyond her legal advocacy, she has mentored young attorneys of color and supported grassroots leaders, often working behind the scenes to ensure movements for justice succeed.
The awards committee noted that while her impact has been profound, much of her work has been carried out quietly and without fanfare. The Unsung Shero Award shines a light on her decades of dedication and the uncelebrated labor that sustains movements for equity.
Community Outreach Icon: Dawn Mason
Former State Representative Dawn Mason will receive the 2026 Community Outreach Icon Award in recognition of her lifelong dedication to education, civic engagement, and empowering marginalized communities. In the Legislature, Mason was a force for educational equity and community development. Outside of elected office, she has remained a teacher, mentor, and advocate for culturally responsive schools and expanded opportunities for youth.
Her recognition honors a career built on outreach, collaboration, and community empowerment. As the awards committee explained, Mason embodies the belief that community transformation begins with building bridges, equipping people with the tools to lead, and empowering future generations to thrive.
Shining Executive Superstars
The Shining Executive Superstars distinction celebrates leaders whose professional excellence is matched by their commitment to uplifting others and advancing equity. This year’s honorees include:
• Chasity Malatesta — Chair Elect, educator, facilitator, and equity advocate. With more than 20 years of experience, Malatesta is recognized for her ability to bridge policy, education, and community engagement while mentoring others to lead with courage and empathy.
• Carmen Best — Microsoft Director and former Seattle Police Chief. Best was Seattle’s first Black female Police Chief and now continues her leadership in technology, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and equity.
• Anthony Ives — Executive Director, Kitsap Community Resources. A bilingual leader and SAGE Fellow, Ives is recognized for advancing resources for underserved populations and building cross-cultural connections.
• Veronica Very — CEO and Founder, Wonder of Women International/WOW Gallery. Very is celebrated for using art as a platform for healing and transformation, creating space for identity and resilience.
• Sonya Bell — Senior HR Director, Boeing. Bell is honored for advancing diversity, equity, and leadership opportunities within major organizations.
• Coretta Scott — CEO, House of Scott Funeral Home. Scott combines business leadership with community service, preserving cultural traditions while strengthening community bonds.
• Linda Lowry — Seattle Arts Commissioner and Managing Editor. Lowry is recognized for elevating underrepresented voices in the arts and media and for her commitment to cultural visibility.
• Chris B. Bennett — Publisher & CEO, The Seattle Medium. Bennett is honored for amplifying Black voices in journalism and ensuring African American perspectives are widely shared.
• Linda Thompson-Black — UNCF Director. Thompson-Black is recognized for her advocacy in higher education access, mentoring African American students, and advancing equity.
• Michelle Merriweather — President & CEO, Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle. Merriweather is honored for promoting equity, economic mobility, and community development.
• Dr. Sheley Seacrest — Civil Rights Attorney. Seacrest is recognized for her dedication to justice and influential legal work addressing systemic inequities.
• Rev. Dr. Robert Manaway Sr. — Senior Pastor & Activist. Manaway is celebrated for his ability to inspire and mobilize communities through faith and civic engagement.
• Rev. Dr. Leslie D. Braxton — Founder & Senior Pastor, New Beginnings Christian Fellowship. Braxton is honored for integrating faith leadership with community empowerment.
• Derek Clark — Award-winning producer and philanthropist. Clark is recognized for using music and media as tools for cultural connection and social change.
• Dr. Robyn White — U.S. Navy Officer and Family Nurse Practitioner. White is honored for combining healthcare expertise with military service, advancing women’s health and wellness.
• Betsy Wilkerson — President, Spokane City Council. Wilkerson is celebrated for her civic leadership and dedication to advancing equitable governance in Spokane.
Special Recognition: Pastor C. Ivan Johnson
Special recognition will also go to Pastor C. Ivan Johnson for his decades of spiritual leadership and community advocacy. Johnson, who will guide the evening’s program, is celebrated for his dynamic oratory and his ability to inspire unity and resilience.
